We were six friends that set off for a long-awaited and a long-needed holiday to Jamaica. We were looking for something more personal for a stay option and checked out on the Internet for some good and affordable Jamaica accommodation rentals. After much browsing, we finally settled on Fantasy Villa, a part of the Silver Sands villas community of rentals, great for family and large group getaways. It was a decision well-taken, something that our visit aptly proved.

First, about Fantasy villa itself that made such a difference to our trip. The spacious and comfortable three bedroom villa was perfect for our needs. This designer-decorated home featured a large swimming pool, next to the beach but elevated for privacy. The location too was ideal. Located in Rio Bueno, St. Ann, off the North Coast Highway, beside the Coconut Lagoon Rest Stop it provided us with convenient access to other attractions in Jamaica.

We had asked for an airport pickup and true to the arrangement, the driver was waiting for us to take us to the villa. The drive to the accommodation was lovely and the views prepared us for what the country had to offer.

On reaching the villa, we were greeted with refreshing drinks and some people to assist with luggage and check-ins. Soon we were settled in ready to enjoy the famous Jamaican home-cooked food by our own villa chef. The food we had was nothing like we have had before—it was so delicious and tasty. A variety of foods were available for all palates, including the famous Jamaican jerk chicken, which was amazingly good.

Each room had a beautiful view. We usually had our breakfast and dinner in the patio, enjoying the views of the Bengal beach.

The beach was one of the best we had been to—beautiful white sand, the sea with every shade of blue and green you can imagine. The tranquility and bliss was something we really appreciated and we sat together in the evenings, chatting away the hours and watching the sun sink into the distant horizon.

The first place we visited was the deceased reggae artist Bob Marley's home, which was located nearby. We saw the rock where he rested his head while thinking of his music. The next stop was Ocho Rios, Jamaica's popular vacation.

The 600-foot waterfall is positively lovely. We joined the other tourists and formed a human chain to climb the stone steps leading up to the waterfall. All in all, it was an exhilarating experience. Too soon, our week was over and it was time to return to our world, our routine. Yet, the trip to Jamaica was a full-stop that gave us time to pause and think how beautiful the planet and life can be.